Bertha Louise Jankovich of Preston, CT was promoted to Heaven to be with our Lord and Savior on Sunday, August 24, 2014.
This world was blessed with her presence when she was born on January 26, 1942 to her parents, Benjamin and Genevieve (Watrous) Jankovich who predecease her.
Bertha was also predeceased by five siblings. She was the fourth of ten children born.
Her absence leaves behind her former husband Donald Holdredge Sr., two daughters Kathleen and son-in-law Alan Whitford, Susan and former son-in-law Barry Souza; two sons Donald Holdredge Jr. and former daughter-in-law Lynette Larubina and William (Billy) Holdredge and fiancé Lynn Marchand; ten grandchildren and eight great grandchildren whom she loved and was so very proud of; two brothers George Jankovich and Arthur Jankovich; two sisters Genevieve Hall and Roberta Jankovich who after their Mother passed away took on the role of Roberta’s mother figure leaving behind many other adopted grandchildren. Included are countless nieces, nephews and cousins. Bertha had never-ending love to give. Her friends were far too many to count.
Bertha went to Stonington High School and raised her children in between there and graduating from Ledyard High School in 1987 receiving her diploma. She wanted to show her children if you try, put your best foot forward, and work hard, you can achieve.
She loved God first and foremost. She knew that everyone she loved and everything she had was all because of Him.
Music had always been Bertha’s passion. She played guitar and sang from the time she could get her tiny hands around the neck of a guitar. She was nicknamed Bertie-Jay by band members that she played in with her father as a very young girl. That name stuck with her throughout her life.
Bertie loved family gatherings, going to fairs, country music, holidays. She kept Christmas in her heart and home all year round and never lost the Reason for the Season. There will never be enough words to capture the beauty Bertha brought to all who met her. Her prayers for all, her talks, laughter, songs or her undying love. She was truly a Hero to many and will be forever missed. This world was a better place because of her.
Her family will greet relatives and friends on Wednesday from 6 to 8pm at the Dinoto Funeral Home, 17 Pearl Street, Mystic. A Graveside Service will be conducted on Thursday at 11am in Lambtown Cemetery, Ledyard.
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